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> Growing Nanny Industry Is Enticing More College Graduates

Growing Nanny Industry Is Enticing More College Graduates

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Summary: As more college graduates leave school and struggle to find work, they're turning to the nanny industry. Many working moms love the idea of a highly-educated, experienced nanny providing individualized care for their children in their own homes. But it can come with a substantial price tag.

By Nicole Stevens | Posted: September 12, 2013

In this challenging economic climate, more college graduates are finding a little spoonful of sugar in the burgeoning nanny industry. These "modern day Mary Poppinses" are educated, experienced, and in increasingly high demand.

NBC News reports on the growing popularity of personal childcare professions. Being a nanny is a surprisingly lucrative endeavor in some cases, according to the International Nanny Association. The average salary is about $16 an hour, but highly qualified and educated nannies in certain locations can make $100,000 or more each year. It's not uncommon for nannies to start out with salaries comparable to entry-level finance careers. But not all nannies are in it to pad their wallets: Many love working with children, want a chance to use their college education, or enjoy the role of caretaker.

As the nanny industry grows in popularity, consumers are becoming more discerning. Parents want both practical experience and textbook know-how. Applicants with a college education and years of babysitting or nanny experience will probably find their services in high demand. Degrees in early childhood education and human development are especially hot commodities on a nanny resume.

The increasing popularity of nannies is indicative of the continuing emergence of mothers into the full-time workforce. Cliff Greenhouse, president of a New York agency that places household staff, says that many moms are hesitant to leave their children unless it's with someone they consider a peer. It's the personalized care that draws many people to hire a nanny. Working moms can rest assured that they've got someone in their house giving their kids one-on-one interaction in their absence.

Aside from the desire to leave their children in good hands during the work day, many parents consider experienced, educated nannies a wise investment. They can serve as tutors and homework helpers, thus encouraging kids' success in school. It's worth the hefty price tag a nanny may require.

Taking care of kids isn't just a breezy job, as any mother will tell you, so a good nanny definitely earns her salary. Nannies must be able to change diapers, cook, ensure safety, manage housework, and engage with the kids during playtime and study time. The job requires patience, creativity, discipline, dedication, energy — it's essentially being a "mom away from mom." Certainly not an ideal career for everyone.

Yet it's a job that seems to bring both professional and personal fulfillment for an increasing number of well-credentialed young men and women. Looks like Mary Poppins, with her rosy cheeks and walks in the park and lively clean-up games, was just a few generations ahead of her time.

Would you ever consider hiring a nanny for your kids? What would you look for in potential applicants? Share thoughts below.

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